This southern Spanish capital is famous for its historic churches and palaces, Moorish buildings, flamenco dancing, and more. If you are interested in tapas or history, there is no chance that you will get bored in this Andalusian city.
Visit the Santa Cruz neighborhood
The heart of Seville’s tourist district, Santa Cruz is easily one of the most beautiful barrios (barrios) in all of Spain. This neighborhood is home to many sites, such as the Seville Cathedral and the Real Alcázar, a palace with gardens. You can spend hours in this neighborhood alone, visiting tapas bars or hopping from store to store, looking for crafts and ceramics.
Visit the cathedral of Seville
Also known as the Cathedral of Santa MarÃa de la Sede, the Cathedral of Seville is one of the most beloved places in the city. The Roman Catholic Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Don’t skip a visit to the adjoining Alcázar Palace, which features impressive gardens. The cathedral is usually open every day, but hours vary, especially during the summer months. General admission is 9 euros, as of February 2019.
Climb the Giralda tower
The Giralda was once the minaret of a mosque that stood on the site of the Seville Cathedral, but is now the bell tower of the cathedral and is open for you to climb. In addition to the stunning views from the tower, the Giralda is also an excellent example of Seville’s unique architectural styles – you can see Arabic, Spanish, and even Roman influences. Entrance to the tower is included as part of your ticket to visit the cathedral.
Visit the Alcazar, as seen in Game of Thrones
If you are a fan of “Game of Thrones”, you will immediately recognize the Real Alcázar of Seville. But even if you are not, this incredible royal palace is worth a visit. Built for the Christian king of Pedro de Castilla, the Alcazar was built on the site of a Muslim fortress. You can still see mixes of cultures and unique designs today. The Alcazar is open seven days a week, except for Christmas and a handful of other holidays. Admission costs 9.50 euros as of February 2019.
Take a day trip to Cádiz
Cádiz is an easy day trip from Seville, taking just under two hours by train. The ancient port city is home to the Spanish Armada and was once a bustling port for commerce and exploration. Today, you can visit one of the more than 100 watchtowers, the most emblematic of which is the Torre Tavira. The city is also home to the 18th century Cádiz Cathedral.
See a flamenco show
Seville is famous for flamenco, but some places are better than others to see a performance. Each tablao has a different style, but regardless, you will end the night feeling euphoric. La Casa del Flamenco is one of the most popular places, located in an Andalusian patio. There is no food or drink, so if you want to drink while watching a performance, head to Los Gallos.
Eat tapas at Enrique Becerra restaurant
The venerable Enrique Becerra Restaurant is one of the best tapas bars in Seville. The third generation owner cooks classic Andalusian food with fresh ingredients from the market. There is also an extensive wine list, especially Sherry wines.
Learn about bullfighting
You don’t really have to see a bullfight: if the history of bullfighting interests you, visit the bullfighting museum in the bullring. The oldest bullring in the world, the Real Maestranza, has an adjacent museum that includes costumes, photographs and paintings dedicated to the show.
Note: Bullfighting is deeply rooted in world historical traditions. But today, local public opinion leans against tradition. Although the site includes information for tourists interested in attending the events, TripSavvy relies on its readers to make their own decisions about the ethics of bullfighting as an attraction.
Continue to 9 of 15 below.
Relax in the Plaza de España
Plaza de España is easily the most beautiful and extravagant square in Seville. Located in the MarÃa Luisa Park, it was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition. The landmark combines Renaissance and Moorish Renaissance styles of architecture. Today, it is a great place for people watching and for general leisure.
Take a dance class at the Sevilla Dance Center
The Sevilla Dance Center is a successful dance school in the old town of Seville. Here, you can learn about many popular dance styles, including flamenco, of course, but all kinds of jazz, ballet, modern, and more.
People look at the Omnium Temple
This is one of the traveler’s favorite parts of Seville. The square is home to the Church of Omnium Sanctorum, a low-key 13th century church, a lively market, and several modest bars filled with families spilling out onto the streets to enjoy the afternoon.
See Fine Arts at the Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts in Seville exhibits art from the Gothic period to the present day. The museum is located in a 16th century building that was a convent in the past. Today, it includes works by many of the great masters, including the likes of Goya and Murillo.
Continue to 13 of 15 below.
See the Walls of Seville
The Walls of Seville are a series of defensive walls that are built around the city. The walls date back to Roman times, but they have been updated, destroyed and repaired countless times in the last hundred years. They are among the oldest places in Seville.
Take the kids to Isla Mágica
If you have children, Isla Mágica, a theme park built on the grounds of the World’s Fair, is worth a visit. The park opened in 1997 and includes roller coasters, performers, and more.
Drink Jerez in Jerez
Jerez is an hour’s drive from Seville, making it a great day trip. The city is known for its sherry wine, a fortified wine that is among the most popular aperitifs in Spain. A visit to Bodegas Tradicion includes not only a tasting of four excellent varieties of sherry, but also a tour of the art gallery and appetizers.
